AVID Visit Inspires Students and Staff at MCC
On the last Friday of the term, our MCC community hosted two distinguished guests: Thuan Nguyen, CEO of AVID America, and Claire Brown, Executive Director of AVID Australia. Their visit was a special opportunity for staff and students to learn more about AVID’s impact on education and its ongoing role in supporting student success.
What is AVID?
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a well-established nonprofit organisation that partners with over 7000 schools and 62 post-secondary institutions worldwide. Known for its evidence-based, whole-school improvement approach, AVID helps educators enhance the learning outcomes of all students, regardless of background. Internationally recognised for its effectiveness, leading organisations (including the OECD) endorse AVID’s methods.
How AVID Supports Our Students
We’ve been integrating AVID’s research-backed strategies at MCC for the past two years. Our teachers have engaged in ongoing professional development, equipping them with the tools to help students become independent, lifelong learners—skills that will support them in higher education and the workplace.
A key feature of the AVID program is its emphasis on five essential skills encapsulated in the acronym WICOR: Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading. Teaching these core skills is woven into all our secondary school courses, ensuring that students succeed in the classroom and are prepared for the challenges ahead in their academic and professional lives.
A Visit that Inspired
A highlight of Friday’s event was Thuan Nguyen sharing his journey to success. Thuan, who arrived in the U.S. as an 8-year-old immigrant from Vietnam, shared powerful insights about the importance of humility, integrity, and service to others—values that have shaped his personal and professional success.
Thuan’s message resonated with many of our students, encouraging them to reflect on their potential and the values guiding them in their future endeavours.
Looking Ahead
The insights gained from the AVID leaders will help us build on our progress this year and continue to refine our use of AVID to equip our students for success, both at school and beyond.
Mr Tim Oates
Head of Secondary
